Powered by a blend of Filipino Heritage athletes and home-grown talents, the athletics team brought home a total of 21 medals, a stunning +62% improvement in a mere two years.

The magic number to beat was 13. That’s the number of total medals won by Philippines Athletics in the 2013 edition of the SEA Games.

With Veloci Time and L Timestudio's sponsorship, support, and having witnessed the “blood and sweat” performances of all our athletes during the 28th SEA Games 2015, a Victory party was held for #TeamPilipinas Athletics last June 17, 2015 at the Marriott Hotel in Pasay to share the highlights of their game, welcome them back home, and pat their back and honor the fruits of their training and performances.

The gold medals were hauled from the Hammer trow by Caleb John Christian Stuart, followed by Kayla Anise Richardson for the Womens 100-m dash. The double Gold medalist and double games record setter Eric Shaun Cray for the 100-m Dash and 400-m hurdles grabbed the 3rd and 4th gold medals, while Christopher Ulboc Jr. set in the 3,000-m Steeplechase heroic record on the last day of competition. With the +8 total medal improvements in SEA Games and these highlights of the Philippines Athletics team, the country eyes the upcoming Olympics and World Championship to be re represented by these young up-and-coming athletes.

PATAFA Pres. Philip Ella Juico: “Eric Cray is already qualified for the Olympics in Rio, and is ranked top 10 in the world in the 400 Hurdles”, said Juico. “This is a huge achievement to have a bona-fide qualifier from the Philippines. We are targeting to have perhaps 2-3 more before the 2016 Olympic Games open in Rio”.

If you have been following the 2015 SEA Games from the Media outlets, you would have noticed some Filipino-Foreigner contingents of our Philippine team. While this is no big matter for most of the People whose sole wish is to bring gold and glory for the Philippines, some would not even appreciate this goodness, does not even see the skills, and what kind of hard-work and discipline these Athletes went through to qualify for the SEA Games.

Now if you have read some weekly round up reviews (or even just the post title, like what I mostly do) prior to the SEA Games from PinoyAthletics.info by Mr. Pirie Enzo, you will learn that these athletes trained very well and are home-grown talents of the Country. They did not just suddenly sprout up during the competition, they joined many qualifying games and even broke national records prior to these Victorious wins from the 28th SEA Games.

Possible bets to make the cut before Rio 2016 Olympic Games and join Cray are young pole vaulter Ernest John "EJ" Obiena, who continues to smash the national record on a monthly basis; and 2-time Olympian Marestella Torres in long jump.

The victories of Cray and Kayla Richardson anointed the Philippines as "The speed capital of Southeast Asia". “It was a shocking performance and we overtook traditional sprinting powers Vietnam and Thailand”, Juico stated. “Never in the history of the SEA Games have we taken the sprint crown in both men’s and women’s 100 meters.”

Despite these achievements, the athletics team did not go without heartbreak from the 2015 SEA Games in Singapore, with several prior champions failing to again attain the gold medal. Most notable among these athletes was Jason Ramil Cid in Decathlon, Archand Bagsit in 400 meters, and Marestella Torres in Long Jump. But for PATAFA President Philip Ella Juico, a podium finish is what matters. “Whilst some may be focused solely on Gold Medals, we are not. This is sports. Sometimes there is an injury. Sometimes a fraction of a second means the difference between Gold and Silver. We must be wise and celebrate the achievement and not nit-pick. In 3 races we had photo finishes and we got the silver in all 3. Give us another tenth of a second we would have 3 more gold medals”, says Juico.

Another notable Philippine representative is the 34-years old Marestella Torres, who, although was not able to jump for the gold, but worthy of applause from her come back after having a now 1-year old baby. She "qualified and medaled in her event, and was only beaten by two world class jumps by the Vietnamese and Indonesian, both breaking their national records. It required national record jumps, a perfect day, to beat her. Marestella is a tribute to mothers everywhere who combine motherhood with excellence in other facets of life. She is a hero for getting onto that podium” says Juico.

A +62% medal improvement is a major step-change and makes athletics one of the bright spots of the Philippines performance. If all NSAs had achieved a similar result, the country would have won a total of 155 medals and finished a few notches higher. In the end, Philippines attained only 125 medals.

To cap off the victory party, the athletes took a cake-cutting ceremony and photo-op. The cake was specially made by the pastry Chef of Marriott Hotel

For Veloci Time and L Timestudio, the intense speed, breathtaking jumps and powerful throws that were unleashed with the hope of attaining glory for our country, they will continue to extend their support with the hope of uplifting our athletes. There were victorious moments and there were unsuccessful attempts. But the remarkable effort of each athlete as they fought for a triumphant finish is what really matters.

Coach Rio explaining the RU3 details during the event launch with the Bloggers and Pacers

On October 4 this year, the 3rd series of the RunRio and Run United Trilogy will resume with an ever exciting racing categories to cap-off each one's goal of being a progressive athlete and becoming the best in each leg and exceed themselves as they progress.

The 3rd and last series of the year features the full 42.195-km Marathon that will traverse the roads of Metro Manila from the starting line at the Seaside Blvd. in SM Mall of Asia in Pasay, and ending at the same road entering an exclusive finish-line for the RUPM category finishers inside Manila's stylish venue by the Bay -- One Esplanade (1E).

Layout of the exclusive Finish line for the RUPM finishers at One Esplanade (1E)

In-store purchases of prepaid cards has already started today (June 19) and will end on the 13th of September, 2015 (or until slots ran out) from 12:00nn to 8:00pm daily. Register your purchased prepaid card before August 16 to guarantee your singlet size (all categories) and finisher's shirt (for the 21K and 42K categories).

Included on the race kit are Race bib w/D-Tag and a Chaf-Reduc ActiveHealth singlet that reduces or prevents the chafing in the underarms that is usually caused by the stitches of the usual jerseys. Post-race, finishers will be given their respective Active Health ventilation bag, Hydration, Finisher shirt and Medal (21K and 42K finishers only).

1Prepaid cards are sold on a first-come first-serve and per person-basis only. The race kits will be given from 10:00AM to 8:00PM during the 3-day Race Expo on October 1-3, 2015 (expo closes at 5:00PM on October 3) at One Esplanade.

2Note: Additional Php 150.00 will be charged for race kit delivery for online registrants. Fees are inclusive of Php 50.00 web admin fees. Race Bib with D-Tag Delivery Schedule will be on or before September 18, 2015.

Event Jersey/Singlet Design

Finisher's Memorabilia/Token

Route Map
TBP

You may also visit ULAH or RunRio.com for more details and further race updates.

Coinciding with Father's day on June 21, the Kalasag-Lahi batch 1997 of the Philippine Military Academy and the Business Industry and Retirees Chapter (BIRC) will be holding a fun run aimed to raise funds for their outreach programs. BIRC is one of the five major chapters of the PMA Alumni Association Inc.

Last Sunday, March 31, 2015, Alaska Milk celebrated the World Milk Day simultaneously in four different locations in the Country from Metro Manila and together with Baguio, Cebu, and Davao. The Seaside Boulevard and the activity area at the SM Mall of Asia garnered thousands of family members who all together, celebrated, bonded, ran, danced, and had a toast of Alaska milk by 6:00 AM.

SM City Baguio, SM City Cebu, and SM City Davao gathered the families at their respective cities on a 3K run, while SM Mall of Asia here in Manila gathered the families to different categories from 100-m and 1K distances for the kids, 3K, 5K, and 10K for the individual participants, and a 3K Family run where Moms and Dads were able to run the route together with their kids.

As for me, I originally planned to register for a 3K family run but then I forgot that my Kid also have an early appointment on the same date on his McDo Kiddie Crew Grand Graduation at the World Trade Center (WTC). Since I don't want him to be so tired before the graduation program begins, I decided to just meet him and his Mom at WTC after my 3K individual run. I won't be detailing about my run anymore as it was only part of my taper period for the upcoming pacer duty this coming Sunday, and actually, the festive gathering and bonding of the participants is more lively than how I raced. :)

As early as 4:30 AM when I arrived, kids were already jumping, climbing, sliding, and kicking at the inflatable play ground. Others were having their white, creamy moustache tattooed at the milk moustache tent. Breakfast goodies were also offered at the other tents like the champorado with condensed Alaska milk. What surprised me was the blended Alaska milk, I don't know if it was the powdered milk that they blended but it really tastes great and deliciously creamy! Never made and tasted milk that way before!

Right when 6:00 AM ticked, everybody joined the milk toast before proceeding to the next program. The milk toasting was simultaneously done together with the participants at the Baguio, Cebu, and Davao legs... except me, as I was busy taking a photo-op at the far end of the activity area with the Running Diva and her friend together with Alaska Tri-Aspire's elite Triathlete Mr. Matt O'Halloran. :)

After the milk toasting, everybody converged at the loot bag and milk can claiming area. This is where I saw the multitude of the crowd all lined-up while anticipating the many goodies. There were more than ample supply of 1.8-kg Alaska milk powder, sachets of Alaska milk choco, tetra-paks of Alaska fresh milk and flavored Yogurt drink, small can of Alaska evaporated milk, and bars of chocolates.

I left the event a few minutes after the Zumba dance started and after taking some photos of the participants. The Zumba party was well-attended not just by the girls but also the Kuyas and Dads. I even saw some of the elite runner participants signing up. I see that they are really competitive not just on the route but also in shaking their bodies at the dance floor! :)

The celebration of World Milk Day in the Philippines by Alaska is a great way to promote drinking of milk not just for the kids but for everyone at any age. It has also positively promoted a healthy lifestyle by doing fun activities like running (and Multisports) while bonding together with the whole family.

When I arrived at the WTC and my son saw the photos of the Alaska event from my phone, I regret not having him with me. I thought we could have still made it on his Kiddie crew graduation even after running at the #AlaskaWorldMilkDay. There will still be next time though, kiddo!

Check out more photos below:

That happy and priceless smile

This Mom-Dad-Son tandem just crossed the finish line, Alaska E-Cow at the back.

How I love this Father and Daughter tandem

A dream of every Runner Dad - to cross the finish line with his Son or Daughter :)

Also a dream of most Dads, to have an all-boys team in the Family! ;)

A family of five who just crossed the finish line together

With Ms. Roselle (the Running Diva) and her friend who just finished his first 10K

It was five years ago when I first knew about TNF100 that was still held in my hometown. Just by hearing where the venue of that race -- Baguio City, was enough to make me nervous running its trails and mountains as back then I have never done it yet except for the usual short hikes with some friends. Right now, I am regretting those opportunities why I have never joined any edition of the TNF100 Philippines when it was still being held in Baguio for the past few consecutive years.

This year though, TNF100 is bringing Asia’s 1st Trail Running Ultra Marathon series to Nuvali, Laguna -- for the start and finish line. The route will traverse the ridges of Tagaytay in Cavite, overseeing the Taal volcano, and Taal lake. The unexplored hills and mountainsides of Batangas will also be traversed, thereby passing three provinces and experiencing differences in climate within the race period.

But aside from that, here are the top 10 reasons why you should join this year's edition of The North Face 100 Philippines (#TNF100Ph2015).

(Press Release)

On its 7th year, The North Face 100, Asia’s 1st Trail Running Ultra Marathon Series and the Philippines’ mother of all trail runs continue to break boundaries and challenge everyone to Never Stop Exploring.

After 3 years of high altitude running and massive elevation gains, 215 ushers in a “fast course” where speed and multi –terrain adaptability play much bigger roles. This provides a welcome opportunity for ultra road runners to try and experience the trails in a more accessible, controlled yet still challenging environment.

The outdoor pioneers have shown that with fundamental skills, proper training, and reliable equipment extreme trails can be conquered, now we challenge the greater majority to level up their game, be counted among the ranks of trail runners and be one of The North Face in Breaking All Boundaries. So whether you are an aspiring trail running beginner or a seasoned racer looking for new challenges, unparalleled experience is offered in each competition of this season’s largest trail running series. Break All Boundaries, and Never Stop Exploring!

The North Face 100 was made possible in partnership with NUVALI, SEDA Hotel Nuvali, AXN, Gatorade & Summit as it’s official hydration sponsors, the Primer Group of Companies, R.O.X., Department of Tourism, LGUs of Laguna, Cavite and Batangas, Tagaytay Highlands, Municipalities of Canlubang, Tagaytay and Talisay. Thanks also to our media partners Business Mirror, Business World, Philippine Daily Inquirer, The Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin, MB Sports Digest, Speed Magazine, and Men’s Health.

Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Join This Year's TNF 100

1. Previous years' wins do not define this year's race. #TOP1
Asia's 1st and Longest Running Ultra Trail Marathon Series now spans 9 countries. Be part of the global community that breaks all boundaries and never stops exploring! Get your #TNF100Ph2015 slot now!

2. Pain is temporary, pride is forever. #TOP2
As early as now, we congratulate all #TNF100Ph2015 registrants. See you on the trails. Let's make a legendary history on June 12-13. Break all boundaries!

3. See Taal Volcano like never before. #TOP3
#TNF100Ph2015 prides itself for bringing participants to previously unexplored terrain. Get a unique vantage point of Taal as a bonus! Get your slot now by visiting any TNF store to register.

4. Another reason to join #TNF100Ph2015? It's historical. #TOP4
A surprise landmark from the 70's appears from the fire roads at KM 16. You can't miss it! Registration still ongoing. Visit www.thrillofthetrail.ph to register online or visit any TNF stores today!

5. Don't come back with just words to tell. #TOP5
Share your experience at the trails as it happens. Selfie at KM. 68 with wilderness as the background? Only at #TNF100Ph2015! Get your slot online or register now at the nearest TNF store near you. Break all boundaries!

7. Strength is the product of struggle. #TOP7
The long running tandem of #TheNorthFace Athletes, Coach Gado and blind runner Aga Casidsid, challenge the limit of human potential as they plan to conquer their first 100KM trail run. How about you? Will you conquer #TNF100Ph2015 too?

8. Represent the country! #TNF100Ph2015 gunstart happens on Independence Day — June 12. #TOP8
Showcase Pinoy endurance against nationalities from the world over and break boundaries all together. Register now at www.thrillofthetrail.ph or visit any TNF stores near you!

9. True to being innovators in the industry, #TNF100Ph2015 will be the 1st Ultra Trail Marathon to offer real time tracking through your own mobile phones! #TOP9
Now your family, friends and supporters can see your progress real time as you conquer the trails! Be part of this history and register at www.thrillofthetrail.ph. Break all boundaries!

10. Be the first to explore the trails! #TOP10
Hardcore pioneers got first dibs at Nasugbu, Clark, CamSur and Baguio—Benguet, the new course of #TNF100Ph2015 Nuvali—Tagaytay—Batangas is the most accessible yet. Don't miss the chance to claim, "I am one of the firsts!" so Register now!

Most of us dreads running on treadmill, and short-coursed repetitive loop runs. But what if the challenge is that for every loop that you do, the Children of Bantay Bata 163 will get Php 100.00 as donation? How would you like to go on and give a positive energy for the operation and medical treatment of these kids?

This year, Energizer Philippines and Bantay Bata 163 will illuminate a 3K open loop of Filinvest, Alabang for the 3,000 participants who are expected to further their thrust in helping and giving back to the community, specially to the Children beneficiaries.

The run will last for only 2-hours, and each participant may finish as many as 3K loops as they can (like the Energizer bunny). The time will be monitored by a timing chip each time that they pass the 3K loop and a battery meter will also light up every time a runner completes a 3K loop until it reaches a 1,000,000 target. This battery meter will be put on view through an LED-display onstage, and in the start and finish arc.

Coming on the first weekend of June is the biggest natural food, organic products, health and wellness bazaar in the South of Metro at Filinvest City Tent from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. It will be a three day event that will commence on June 5, and conclude on June 7 with an early morning of fun bonding of running in 3K, 5K, or 10K categories.

Don't miss out this healthy weekend, be on your feet and get your buddies to shop for a fresh purchase of organically grown products then make your way to a fun (or serious) run. Your participation will not only benefit your own wellness but also the students of Pedro E. Diaz High School and the alumnus of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa.

Health Matters TV is a block-timer lifestyle and health show in ANC (ABS-CBN News Channel), aired every Saturdays at 8:00 PM hosted by Paolo Abrera with a replay on Sundays at 11:00 AM. Season 2 – pilot episode aired on May 16, 2015.

This fun run aims to promote healthier lifestyle and to encourage everyone to experience a fun-filled run that is both health- and value-oriented and will deliver impact in the community. Registrations will include Race Shirt, Race Bib, Finishers Medal for All , Raffle Entry and Free Entrance in the Organic Bazzaar Expo (in Filinvest City Tent).

Natural and Organic Products Expo

Southern Manila is a haven for the posh elite, young urban professionals and families and expats who lead active lifestyles, pro-health, and pro-environment. This renewed interest in keeping fit and the latest health trends that have become viral thru social media has spurred us to come up with the first Natural and Organic Products Expo at the Filinvest Tent on June 5 to 7.

The expo’s objective is to promote natural, sustainable and healthy lifestyles, natural and organic products. It will encompass four main focuses including, the Natural Food, Natural Beauty & Spa, Natural Living and Health & Nutrition. The expo also provides an opportunity for supplying and sourcing natural and organic products.